How to Solve a 2X2 Rubiks Cube

Amanda RumbleUpdated March 23, 2017

A Rubik's cube is a very common puzzle available in 3-by-3 and 2-by-2 grid sizes. The way to solve the two is very similar, and if you have experience solving a 3-by-3 cube, you will have a better chance of grasping the strategy to solve a 2-by-2. The 2-by-2 Rubik's cube is a smaller one that is pocket sized and easy to carry around. You can amuse your friends with the skills you exhibit while solving the puzzle.

Familiarise yourself with the terminology for solving the cube. R refers to the right side, L refers to the left side, U is the side on the top and D is the layer on the bottom.

Select a colour to focus on. For the purpose of this tutorial, focus on the green side and place that piece facing you.

Find the piece that includes both green and red. Place the piece next to green and turn it R counter-clockwise, D counter-clockwise, R clockwise and D clockwise.

Focus on the top, which will have one blue piece. Turn the cube until the blue piece faces you and turn the cube piece R clockwise, U clockwise, R counter-clockwise, U clockwise, R clockwise, U twice clockwise and R counter-clockwise.

Note: Depending on which text editor you're pasting into, you might have to add the italics to the site name.

About the Author

Amanda Rumble has been writing for online publications since 2000, primarily in the fields of computing and technology. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Buffalo in information technology. Rumble also focuses on writing articles involving popular video games and Internet culture.